Guru, groundbreaking rapper and Gang Starr co-founder, dies of cancer

story and photo by MSN Entertainment

The rap world is mourning news that groundbreaking rapper and Gang Starr co-founder Guru has died of cancer. He was 43.

Guru, born Keith Elam, died Monday after a year-long battle with the disease. The rapper had suffered a heart attack on Feb. 28 then slipped into a coma.

Guru became famous after teaming up with DJ Premier in group Gang Starr in 1985. The duo released six studio albums between 1989 and 2003 and became famous for making "conscious rap" before splitting under acrimonious circumstances.

Since then Guru had released a series of "Jazzmataz" albums where he teamed up with classic jazz, soul and hip-hop artists such as Roy Ayers, Donald Byrd, Branford Marsalis, N'Dea Davenport, Erykah Badu, Herbie Hancock, Isaac Hayes, the Roots and Macy Gray.

He also continued to tour the world with a band and producer Solar.

Shortly after his death Solar released a letter allegedly written by the rapper on his death bed, reports Allhiphop. In it Guru stated that he wanted Solar to look after all elements of his character after death, and that his ex-Gang Starr partner DJ Premier should not be allowed to operate under the duo's name.

On his blog, DJ Premier paid tribute to Guru, "Our warmest condolences to Guru's family and loved ones at this difficult time," he wrote.